THE BIPOLAR SPECTRUM DIAGNOSTIC SCALE (BSDS) Instructions:

Please read through the entire passage below before filling in any blanks.
Some individuals notice that their mood and/or energy levels shift drastically from time to time______. These individuals notice that, at times, their mood and/or energy level is very low, and at other times, very high______. During their ''low'' phases, these individuals often feel a lack of energy; a need to stay in bed or get extra sleep; and little or no motivation to do things they need to do______. They often put on weight during these periods______. During their low phases, these individuals often feel ''blue'', sad all the time, or depressed______. Sometimes, during these low phases, they feel hopeless or even suicidal______. Their ability to function at work or socially is impaired______. Typically, these low phases last for a few weeks, but sometimes they last only a few days______. Individuals with this type of pattern may experience a period of ''normal'' mood in between mood swings, during which their mood and energy level feels ''right'' and their ability to function is not disturbed______. They may then notice a marked shift or ''switch'' in the way they feel______. Their energy increases above what is normal for them, and they often get many things done they would not ordinarily be able to do______. Sometimes, during these ''high'' periods, these individuals feel as if they have too much energy or feel ''hyper''______. Some individuals, during these high periods, may feel irritable, ''on edge'', or aggressive______. Some individuals, during these high periods, take on too many activities at once______. During these high periods, some individuals may spend money in ways that cause them trouble______. They may be more talkative, outgoing, or sexual during these periods______. Sometimes, their behavior during these high periods seems strange or annoying to others______. Sometimes, these individuals get into difficulty with co-workers or the police, during these high periods______. Sometimes, they increase their alcohol or non-prescription drug use during these high periods______. Now that you have read this passage, please check one of the following four boxes: ( ) This story fits me very well, or almost perfectly ( ) This story fits me fairly well ( ) This story fits me to some degree, but not in most respects ( ) This story does not really describe me at all Now please go back and put a check after each sentence that definitely describes you. Scoring: each sentence checked is worth one point. Add 6 points for fits me very well, 4 points for fits me fairly well, and 2 points for fits me to some degree. Total Score = _________